Pensioners in Zimbabwe have said they often get US$20 from the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority/">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a> which is not enough to cover their monthly expenses. They also received bonuses of ZW$92,000 in November last year. However, due to Zimbabwe’s high inflation, the value of the local currency is significantly lower in comparison to the US dollar. On the black market, ZW$92,000 translates to only US$9.20, and when using the government-regulated inter-bank rate, it amounts to US$15, making the total payment approximately US$35.
The NSSA follows a pattern of alternating payments between the local currency and US dollars each month. For November, pensioners received an upward payment in US dollars, but many pensioners expressed dissatisfaction with the amount, considering the country’s high inflation rate. An anonymous pensioner spoke to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/we-usually-get-us20-say-pensioners-on-nssas-us29-bonus-payments-for-christmas-new-year/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>:
<blockquote>
We usually get US$20 per month or ZW$92,000. NSSA alternates payments in US dollars and the local currency.
We got our yearly bonuses from NSSA last December comprising of US$20 and ZW$92,000 to make it just about US$29 on the black market.
No one can go through a month on that amount, no matter how much you try to save. There is little we can do about it.
This money is only meant for me to buy my electricity (voucher), a bit of food and hope for the best.
</blockquote>
Pensioners face significant challenges as the cost of living in Zimbabwe continues to rise. With the country’s food basket reaching US$250 by August of last year, pensioners and their dependents are among the poorest in the country. The unpredictable economic climate, rampant inflation, and profiteering by businesses have made it difficult for them to survive. The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has highlighted that shops deliberately increase prices, further reducing the purchasing power of pensioners’ already meagre income.
Zimbabwe is known for having some of the lowest-paid professionals globally, with average monthly salaries not exceeding US$500. The country has been grappling with a severe economic crisis for over two decades, leaving its government struggling to address the challenges faced by its citizens.
The purpose of a pension is to provide financial security during retirement by offering a steady income stream to replace earnings from work. Pensions ensure long-term financial planning, stability, and social security. They encourage individuals to save and invest for retirement, helping them maintain their standard of living and meet financial obligations. Pensions are often provided as an employment benefit, attracting and retaining employees while promoting loyalty and job satisfaction. But that’s not the case in Zimbabwe at the moment.
Employees contribute 9% (their 4.5% of their salaries plus 4.5% paid by the employer) towards pension. That means, an employee earning ZWL$170,000.00 will contribute (4.5%) = 0.045X $159,530.00 = $ 7,178.85. The employer contributes (4.5%) = 0.045 X $159,530.00 = $ 7,178.85. Total due (9%) =ZWL$14,357.70
If an employee earns US$500 (which was the average salary before October 2018), their monthly pension contributions would be US$22.50 from both the employee and the employer, totalling US$45.00. Therefore, if pensioners are receiving only about US$20 per month, it means they are getting less than half of the amount they used to contribute when they were working. 
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

Pindula News

We Usually Get US$20 Per Month Or ZW$92,000 - Pensioners

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has vowed to take action against officials implicated in looting the state-run pension fund following a new forensic audit.
In an interview with the Zimbabwe Independent, NSSA board chairman Emmanuel Fundira said that the authority was working through the audit before taking any action. Fundira stated that NSSA wanted to “clear all the mess which has been existing in NSSA”. He said:
<blockquote>
We want to clear all the mess which has been existing in Nssa. There have been correct and serious observations made in the audit and we are going to follow that as a bible and make sure that people are accountable for their transgressions.
</blockquote>
Fundira who was appointed chairman in May spoke after a ceremony to honour outstanding insurers at the Independent Insurance Survey Awards 2023 on Wednesday this week.
The announcement follows the authority’s success at the 2023 Good Practice Awards in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where NSSA won three certificates of merit in recognition of service delivery initiatives. NSSA also won three awards at the Independent Insurance Survey Awards 2023.
NSSA’s acting general manager, Charles Shava, said that the awards demonstrate the authority’s journey towards service delivery excellence. He said NSSA’s vision is to become a world-class provider of social security by 2030, and Shava emphasised the importance of investing in technology to achieve this goal.
NSSA has over the years lost millions of dollars through corruption by some of the officials and some senior government officials, including former Public Service minister Priscah Mupfumira, who allegedly prejudiced the authority of US$6.5 million. The case is still pending. Corruption has resulted in the authority’s inability to pay pensioners. Some government retirees are reportedly receiving only US$35 as their pension pay-outs, despite decades of loyal service.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

NSSA Vows To Act On Officials Implicated In Looting Pension Fund

Professor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima/">Paul Mavima</a>, the Minister of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare, has announced the appointment of Dr Emmanuel Anesu Fundira as the new chairperson of the board of directors of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority/">National Social Security Authority (NSSA). </a>
The appointment is effective immediately.
Dr Fundira’s appointment <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2023/03/19/nssa-board-chairman-percy-toriro-resigns/">follows the resignation</a> of Percy Toriro. Toriro, who is a renowned urban planning expert, offered to step down before the expiry of his term, as he has been out of the country for almost six months, doing urban planning consultancy in West Africa. Toriro was appointed to the NSSA board in May 2021, and his first five-year term was due to expire in 2026. He becomes the fifth person to leave the NSSA board in seven years, with board chairpersons and general managers typically lasting no more than two years on average. A recent report from Business Weekly suggested that NSSA was planning to remove Toriro at any time.
During a press conference held in Harare, the Minister stated that Dr Fundira’s appointment was made after several consultative processes and good recommendations based on his qualifications and experience related to NSSA’s work. 
The Minister believes that Dr Fundira’s leadership credentials and experience in leading both private and public sector institutions at executive and board levels make him a good fit for NSSA. Mavima said:
<blockquote>
It is my hope and expectation that through the leadership of Dr Fundira, the NSSA board will make sound decisions to ensure the well-being of NSSA beneficiaries and contribute to the socio-economic development of Zimbabwe through good investment decisions.
Our aspiration as a nation is that we leave no one and no place behind. As such the appointment of Dr Fundira as board chairperson comes at a time where it is imperative that NSSA continue to develop and implement an all-encompassing informal sector scheme framework.
</blockquote>
According to Professor Mavima, it is important that NSSA increases funding and resources for the development of an informal sector scheme, which should be informed by a needs assessment survey. The scheme’s design and cost should be based on studies of other informal sector schemes in the region and globally.
He said there is also an urgent need to review and update all NSSA governance policies and procedures to ensure they are suitable for the changing environment. The statutes governing the authority should also be reviewed to ensure they meet the needs of the people NSSA serves.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Paul Mavima Announces Dr Fundira As The New NSSA Board Chair

President Emmerson Mnangagwa could force the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a> to reverse a US$400 000 house purchase deal in Quinnington, Borrowdale, Harare, involving Public Service minister <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Paul_Mavima">Paul Mavima</a>. 
NSSA acting general manager, Charles Shava, was summoned to Mnangagwa and Vice President Chiwenga’s offices last week Monday to explain what was happening. 
Shava was asked to write a report on the purchase of the house which NSSA eventually sold to Mavima. That was before he was arrested later in the week — on Thursday — on allegations of fraud. 
The NewsHawks was told by anonymous sources in the Office of the President and Cabinet that Shava could be forced to reverse the deal. The source was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
The issue is now being handled by Chief Secretary in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Misheck Sibanda. There is mounting pressure for urgent action to be taken. Shava might be brought to book or forced to reverse the deal, which is likely.
</blockquote>
These events were before Shava was arrested on allegations of fraud involving US$12.2 million. His arrest for allegedly giving doctors allowances without board approval was seen as a fightback by the minister.
Shava was picked up by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission a day before a disciplinary hearing for NSSA director Brian Mrewa. 
Mrewa, NSSA’s suspended director for investments and properties, helped Mavima in his Borrowdale house deal. He was the one who facilitated everything on that. 
Through his legal advisers, Shava has described the allegations as baseless and unfounded. However, his accusers say he has to clear his name before the courts if he is innocent as he pleads. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/minister-mavima-causes-nssa-to-buy-himself-borrowdale-house/">The Borrowdale House saga:</a></h2>
<blockquote>
i). It is alleged that NSSA bought Borrowdale house secretly on behalf of Mavima.
ii). Due process and board approvals to buy the Quinnington house, Stand No. 218 Lot A1, were not followed.
iii). The property was valued at US$350 000, but US$400 000 was paid by NSSA, creating room for US$50 000 to go into private pockets. The transaction was executed on 3 October 2022.
iv). The house was not transferred to NSSA books before it was sold to Mavima. 
v). The house was registered under a special purpose vehicle, Angvo Investments (Pvt) Ltd and the deeds were under CABS custodial services, not CBZ Custodial Services who are the custodians of NSSA assets bought through asset management firms.
vi). <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/minister-mavima-causes-nssa-to-buy-himself-borrowdale-house/">Minister Mavima allegedly initiated the deal</a> as he identified the property which belonged to one Seremane and asked NSSA to buy and keep it for him while he awaited the disbursement of his US$500 000 housing allowance given to each cabinet minister by the government.
vii). The issue came to light when Shava directed NSSA deputy director (audit) Andrew Nyakonda on 16 February to conduct an investigation into the disposal of the Borrowdale house and the purchase of Kariba Lodge, Stand No. 989 Kariba Township, for US$244 000.
</blockquote>
<h2>Kariba commercial property:</h2>
<blockquote>
a). The commercial property was bought for US$215 000 after negotiations, but US$244 000 was paid. 
b). When other costs were added, the price went up to US$252 631.59. 
c). Since NSSA usually pays round figures, US$300 000 was paid. The balance was purportedly directed to its investment account held at the asset management firm which facilitated the deal.
</blockquote>
When the deals were reported in the media, Mrewa skipped the border into South Africa.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

ED Could Force NSSA To Reverse House Deal For Minister Mavima

The move to reverse the<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-announces-new-acting-general-manager/"> appointment of</a> <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-announces-new-acting-general-manager/">Agnes Masiiwa</a> as the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a>‘s acting general manager was reportedly ordered by Acting President <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Constantino_Chiwenga">Constantino Chiwenga</a>.
NSSA general manager Arthur Manase was suspended in July 2022 and senior executives were supposed to be appointed on a rotational basis to fill the position in an acting capacity.
NSSA director for occupational health Charles Shava was the first to be appointed acting general manager and he was supposed to pass the button to Masiiwa following his appointment by the NSSA board.
On December 29, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare minister Paul Mavima wrote to NSSA board chairperson Percy Toriro recommending Masiiwa to replace Shava. Mavima wrote:
<blockquote>
I write to advise that it is time to rotate the acting general manager at NSSA. Shava has served in that position for six months,” Mavima wrote.
It’s therefore, prudent to find another senior executive to hold that position while the forensic audit is being implemented.
Previously, Masiiwa had been recommended together with Shava. I therefore recommend her appointment at this time.
</blockquote>
In a follow-up notice to stakeholders, Toriro indicated that Masiiwa would assume the position from 1st January 2023. She is one of the Directors at NSSA.
However, in a letter addressed to Mavima the deputy chief secretary for policy analysis, coordination and development planning in the Office of the President, Willard Manungo, said Chiwenga had ordered the reversal of Masiiwa’s appointment.
According to <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/local-news/article/200006184/chiwenga-blocks-nssa-boss-appointment">The Standard</a>, Chiwenga argued that the appointment was a serious violation of corporate governance rules. Read the letter dated 3 January 2023:
<blockquote>
Pursuant to good corporate governance, the honourable acting president advises that nothing should be done to remove the NSSA acting general manager in the midst of the forensic audit processes currently underway.
</blockquote>
<a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/nssa-reverses-appointment-of-agnes-masiiwa-as-acting-general-manager/">Reversal of the Appointment:</a>
NSSA then released another public notice revoking the notice signed by board chairman Percy Toriro which confirmed the appointment of Masiiwa. 
The notice said NSSA had been advised that the timing may not be right since the audit process is not yet complete. It also stated that the authority had been advised to let Sgava continue in the position.
But there is discontent over the move, according to insiders at NSSA who suspected the hand of Manungo.
Some said there was no evidence to suggest that Chiwenga, who is quoted in the letter was even consulted to veto Mavima’s proposal with the laws clear that in the absence of a substantive chief executive any other senior member can be appointed in an acting capacity.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"VP Chiwenga Ordered The Reversal Of Masiiwa's Appointment As NSSA General Manager"

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a> has said nearly 600 000 new formal jobs were created in various sectors between 2018 and December 2022.
NSSA said at least 591 000 “decent jobs” were created between January 2018 and December 2022.
<h2>Jobs created per year:</h2>
<blockquote>
i). 2018 – 20 640.
ii). 2019 – 242 998.
iii). 2020 – 78 409.
iv). 2021 – 121 145.
v). 2022 – 129 051.
</blockquote>
NSSA’s general manager Dr Charles Shava told The Sunday Mail that the agriculture sector was the biggest employer during the period under review.
This was followed by the retail and general business sectors.
Also, there was a considerable decline in the number of people leaving their jobs, as most departures from work were caused by retirement, old age, invalidity or death. Shava noted:
<blockquote>
Exits from employment are on a declining trend as shown . . . with a 21 percent decline from 2018 to 2022, thus indicating an improvement in employee retention in the market.
The exits data provided in this report tries to mimic retrenchment information.
However, some exits from the NSSA main scheme are due to old age, invalidity and death.
</blockquote>
The data from NSSA is in sync with a recent report from the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Confederation_of_Zimbabwe_Industries">Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI)</a>, a business lobby group which noted that capacity utilisation was 58 per cent by the end of the first quarter of 2022.
CZI president Mr Kurai Matsheza said increased capacity utilisation by industries is good for the economy as it means increased output, more fiscal revenue from the increased output, increased employment numbers and increased economic activity. 
Economic analyst Mr Trust Chikohora lauded the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s auction market which he said had provided the much-needed foreign currency for companies to re-tool.
The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_National_Statistics_Agency_(ZIMSTAT)">Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT)</a> describes an employee as anyone who works for a public or private employer for more than 30 hours per week, while an employer is any individual or entity that employs a worker for more than 30 hours per week.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

NSSA Says Nearly 600 000 New Formal Jobs Were Created Between 2018 And 2022

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA)</a> has announced the appointment of Ms Agnes Masiiwa as the authority’s new Acting General Manager with effect from the 1st of January 2023.
In a notice seen by Pindula News, the authority said Masiiwa is one of the Directors at NSSA. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
<h2>RE: ROTATION OF ACTING APPOINTMENT IN THE POSITION OF NSSA GENERAL MANAGER</h2>
In July 2022 an acting NSSA General Manager was appointed to superintend over the organisation’s operations pending commencement of a forensic audit. It has been six months with Dr. Charles Shava acting in the position. In keeping with best practice and to ensure effective succession planning in the organisation’s executive leadership, from 1st January 2023, Ms. Agnes Masiiwa comes in as the new Acting General Manager. She is one of the Directors at NSSA.
On behalf of the Board, Management and other Stakeholders, I would like to thank Dr. Charles Shava most sincerely for steadily steering the ship for the past 6 months. I also wish Ms. Agnes Masiiwa well as she assumes the Acting General Manager role for the coming period. Her brief is to ensure smooth continuity of business operations and providing leadership at various levels of the organisation’s mandate execution at the same time overseeing finalisation of the audit process already underway. All Stakeholders are advised accordingly. 
Issued by
Dr. Percy Toriro 
NSSA Board Chairman
</blockquote>
Shava was appointed as  General Manager after the substantive General Manager Arthur Manase was <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/corruption-accused-nssa-general-manager-arthur-manase-sent-on-forced-leave/">sent on forced leave</a> to pave way for investigations on corruption allegations levelled against him.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

NSSA Announces New Acting General Manager

Former <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/CABS">Central Africa Building Society (CABS)</a> chairperson, Enos Dzengedza Chiura, also known as EDC, has died, <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/business-icon-chiura-dies/">The Herald</a> reported.
He was 89.
EDC’s death was confirmed by his son Allen who is an American board-certified consultant urological surgeon in private practice in Harare.
Chiura was <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Delta_Corporation">Delta Corporation Limited</a>‘s executive chairperson and inaugural chairperson of Zimbabwe Sun Limited (now African Sun Limited).
With the assistance of five other board members including Patrick Rooney, Ron Stringfellow (CEO), Eric Bloch, Robbie Mupawose and <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Muchadeyi_Masunda">Muchadeyi Ashton Masunda</a>, Chiura got Zimbabwe Sun listed on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange in April 1990.
He also became chairperson of the Central Africa Building Society; Merchant Bank of Central Africa Limited; and the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/National_Social_Security_Authority">National Social Security Authority (NSSA).</a>
EDC also served on the council of the<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/IODZ"> Institute of Directors Zimbabwe</a>.
He was an alumnus of Georgetown University in Washington DC.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former CABS, NSSA Chairperson Enos Dzengedza Chiura Dies

The trial date has been set for seventeen (17) teachers who were arrested in January 2022 during a protest over salaries.
They are scheduled to appear in court on 27 October 2022. 
The state accuses the teachers of participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence, breaches of peace or bigotry as defined in section 37(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23. 
It is alleged that the teachers gathered on 12 January 2022 at the National Social Security Association (NSSA) building in Harare holding stones whilst some had placards written:
<blockquote>
 SAY NO BOND SLAVERY, ARTUZ, FIGHTING FOR RESTORATION OF classroom DIGNITY # EDU VOTE, ARTUZ, trs, YOU SAID 2022 WE WILL BE HAPPY#540USD SALARY.
</blockquote>
<h2>The accused teachers are:</h2>
<blockquote>
1). Obert Masaraure (ARTUZ president)
2). Tambudzai Mumbijo, 
3). Munyaradzi Ndawana, 
4). Liam Takura Kanhenga, 
5). Wellington Gweshe, 
6). Andrew Munguri, 
7). Panashe Mutsvairo, 
8). Munyaradzi Masiyiwa, 
9). Tadiwanashe Muguti, 
10). Isaiah Chamunorwa, 
11). Brian Mhlanga, 
12). Sheron Tambudzai, 
13). Linia Nkiwani, 
14). Patricia Chiedza, 
15). Vimbai Mamutse, 
16). Sokuluhle Ndlovu and 
17). Thembekile Ncube 
</blockquote>
They gathered at Harare gardens, Harare and marched towards NSSA whilst singing and holding placards.
The state says the teachers marched with the intention or realising that there is a real risk or possibility of them forcibly disturbing the peace, security or order of the public or any section of the public; or invading the rights of other people.
Meanwhile, ARTUZ says the arrests are a sign that protests are banned in Zimbabwe.
The government <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/teachers-paid-five-times-less-than-other-civil-servants/">recently offered an increase of 25 per cent</a> on the USD$100 cushioning allowance to make it US$125 and maintained the USD$75 COVID-19 allowance to make the total US dollar package US$200 with effect from September 1, 2022. Pre-October 2018, they earned about US$540.
Teachers and the rest of the public service, have been at loggerheads with the government since 2019 over salaries after the government decided to pay them in the local currency that was pegged at 1: 1 with the United States dollar.
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/06/24/breaking-rbz-si-142-bans-use-of-all-foreign-currencies-with-effect-from-24-june-2019/">Reintroduced in June 2019,</a> the Zimbabwe dollar has constantly been losing value against the USD thereby eroding workers’ salaries. 
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Trial Date Set For 17 Teachers Arrested During A Salary Protest

The National Social Security Association (NSSA) has announced pension pay dates until December 2021. The association indicated that pensioners will be paid their money between 13 and 14 each month.
<img alt="" class="media-img" data-maxheight="688" data-maxwidth="688" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E8XtI5lWQAEtBRl?format=png&amp;name=large"/>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

NSSA Calendar: Pension Pay Dates

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has reviewed minimum monthly pension payouts to $3 000 with effect from July 1, 2021, up from the equivalent of US$25.
NSSA deputy director (marketing and communication) Mr Tendai Mutseyekwa said the association aims to increase the funds to the equivalent of US$60 — about $4 900 at the official exchange rate — by year-end. He said:
<blockquote>_The last review was in April 2021, when we increased the minimum payout from the equivalent of US$12 to US$25. Our target was to increase to the equivalent of US$30 in July, but the $3 000 amounts to about US$35, which is US$5 above our target._
_The December target of US$60 was informed by ILO recommendations of a minimum daily income of US$2 for someone to survive in the Southern African region._
_We have a clear roadmap on pension increases, but we are not stopping there as we have come up with measures to augment the incomes of our beneficiaries._
_Next week (this week) we shall be launching a revolving fund to assist pensioners and beneficiaries who are interested in embarking on income-generating projects._</blockquote>
This comes amid backlash from pensioners who argue that the monthly payouts are not sufficient for their needs with some claiming that the withdrawal of their money from the banks was proving difficult.
Some stakeholders say the association should respect pensioners who contributed to the social security fund for the duration of their tenure at work.
<img alt="Image" class="css-9pa8cd" decoding="async" draggable="true" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E3v7FPXWQAQr0iV?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
Recently, a letter to a teacher whose contract was terminated last year after working for 18 years sparked outrage as it suggested that the individual was only entitled to get just ZWL$8 500 as a pension.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/nssa-hikes-pensioners-payouts">The Sunday Mail</a>

NSSA Has Reviewed Minimum Monthly Pension Payouts

The Zimbabwe Domestic and Allied Workers Union (ZIDAWU) has lamented over the US$10 monthly salary and prolonged lack of pension plan by the National Social Security Authority (NSSA).
Speaking during an exclusive interview on NewZim TV recently, ZIDAWU secretary-general, Hilarious Ruyi, described the “slave-like” situation under which domestic workers are operating as inhumane. Ruyi said:
<blockquote>Government stipulated minimum wage for domestic workers is $900 which is almost the equivalent of US$10. Grade differentials from that minimum salary are not much and can just differ by $10 per grade. Against this background, surely one wonders how a gainfully employed worker can survive from such a paltry slave wage after a month’s work.</blockquote>
Ruyi said the workers’ group has since engaged government over the matter but similar grievances with civil servants had stalled progress on negotiations.
He added that the workers are demanding a restoration of their 2011 salaries which saw the least paid earning S$85.
Ruyi said he was perplexed by local employers who were failing to recognise domestic work and pay decent wages as done in other countries.
He also blamed employers for continuously blocking wage increments and also blamed social perceptions around the jobs as stumbling blocks against meaningful salary increases.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/domestic-workers-chief-decries-us10-monthly-wage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe</a>

Domestic Workers Bemoan "Paltry Slave Wages"

Former Cabinet Minister Prisca Mupfumira has together with the former secretary in the Ministry of Public Service and Social Welfare Ngoni Masoka filed an application at the High Court for review of a Harare magistrate’s decision to dismiss their application for exception to the two counts of criminal abuse of duty and another count of concealing a transaction from a principal.
Mupfumira and Masoka also filed an urgent chamber application for the postponement of proceedings in their case at the magistrate’s court pending the High Court’s determination on their application.
The development comes after Acting Chief Magistrate Munamato Mutevedzi yesterday dismissed Mupfumira and Masoka’s applications for an exception to the charges saying they lacked basis.
Today, Mupfumira and Masoka also made another application before Mr Mutevedzi seeking for a defferment of the matter pending the High Court’s determination.
Mupfumira is accused of abusing office during her tenure as the minister of Public Service and Social Welfare. Her alleged underhand dealings reportedly prejudiced the National Social Security Authority of millions of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/just-in-mupfumira-contests-magistrates-decision/?__cf_chl_captcha_tk__=c91dd011333bcbc498dfa7c436cef164a177b48b-1581018570-0-Af8_lNlnfOTbCvrVx5L-gGoXrZ8eXPh4m0GAy6x_f__lDVLSPr43HQy_GP7_B5lb9Dgp_bg-egabhvJelbMUraK6FRoBhGDScHs1tr1an2U43B-IYK-L4215s2wZt_34RCLSwXExCQE7UbiJtumKXuIgGTMgu-csjM9FYp6wnRplgCTX13rVvJ84RUJw2Mf0DW7kONGWGc6i7pu_ErR2eJdOnNgkJeQwnNbXce95KJaM2OrAKufKJpmmr_QPKiWZvs2F2jdOW0aHkCE740xLF9pX7PnTPFTlBw3Jsl75tPL1xs7aQC9YW-7gy6VDURqjl6qsky9eT6gMZpx7RYUjzvdJq08TdXIMmHx9MKrXgLMW">The Herald</a>

Mupfumira Challenges Magistrate's Decision At The High Court

Former National Social Security Authority (NSSA) board chairman, Robin Vela has sued the Herald and the incumbent NSSA board chair Cuthbert Chidoori for damaging his reputation by spreading reports which suggest that he was involved in corruption which robbed the authority huge amounts of money.
Chambati, Mataka and Makonese Attorneys, who are representing the NSSA former boss said in their court papers:
<blockquote>The plaintiff’s reputation and standing, being a chartered accountant, investment banker and businessman of global acclaim has been significantly impaired in the eyes of the public. His reputation in commercial circles as an upstanding man of probity both locally and abroad has been decimated.</blockquote>
This comes after reports suggesting that, under Vela’s watch, NSSA made questionable investments which would cost the authority US$150 million in cash.
Vela is, however, denying the reports saying that he executed due diligence before making investments.
More: <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2019/12/05/ex-nssa-boss-vela-sues-herald-nssa-board-chair-for-defamation/">Zim Live</a>

Former NSSA Boss Sues Herald And NSSA Board Chair For Defamation

Documentation that shows <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Prisca_Mupfumira">Mupfumira</a> was given cabinet approval to get vehicles from NSSA have surfaced The Standard reports. The documents reportedly prove that Mupfumira was given permission to buy vehicles using NSSA funds despite ZACC claiming that Mupfumira knew that NSSA was in no provision to issue out such loans.
Part of the documents that surfaced reportedly written by Ray Ndhukula on 13 July 2015 to <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Ngoni_Masoka">Ngoni Masoka</a> the labour ministry permanent secretary read in part:
<blockquote>Proceed as requested and purchase an E 300 Mercedes Benz vehicle. This is on the understanding that NSSA will be reimbursed of the funds they avail to you once Treasury allocated the required funding,</blockquote>
Another letter that was written by Masoka read:
<blockquote>
Requests have been made to Ministry of Finance and CMED for the purchase of this vehicle but due t financial constraints Treasury has indicated that funding of the said vehicle will be made available when cash inflows improved.
In order for this vehicle to be purchased for the minister, you are kindly requested for the release of an amount of US90 000 as an advance payment from NSSA. Repayments of this advance will be made as soon as the funding is made available by Treasury
</blockquote>
The former minister is facing charging of <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/07/26/mupfumira-facing-graft-charges-involving-95-million/">siphoning money from NSSA amounting to a whopping $95 Million</a>. She is <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/09/27/former-minister-prisca-mupfumira-granted-5-000-bail/">out on bail after she spent nearly 2 months</a> in jail.
More: <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/2019/10/06/mupfumira-case-new-twist/">The Standard </a>

Mupfumira Says Govt Okayed Her Vehicle Purchases

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has been ordered to pay Housing Corporation of Zimbabwe (HCZ) $30 million with interests for breach of contract after the pension fund cancelled a housing deal.
NSSA had accused HCZ representatives Adam Molai, Stephen Duggan and Alec Nyatanga of swindling the public pension fund of $16 million in a botched housing investment deal which they had terminated. But an independent arbitrator Peter Lloyd ruled that NSSA had no case against HCZ. He also ruled that the manner in which NSSA handled the matter was wrong hence, they must compensate the property developer $30 million plus interest and legal fees.
HCZ rushed to the arbitrator after NSSA had terminated the deal alleging that they had failed to construct 8 000 housing units within the agreed timeframe.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2019/03/nssa-slapped-for-breach-of-contract/">NewsDay</a>

NSSA Ordered To Pay $30 Million For Breach Of Contract

Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Dr Sekai Nzenza, has appointed a new board for National Social Security Authority (NSSA).
The previous board was dissolved last October after expiry of its tenure. The new board will be chaired by Dr Cuthbert Chidoori. Chidoori holds a Doctorate in Electrical Engineering and Communications. Board members include Dr Priscilla Mujuru, a lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe, Mr Mfaro Moyo, APEX chairperson Mrs Cecilia Alexander, lawyer Arthur Manase and Farai Tichawangana, a chartered accountant finance director at ZESA. Nzenza is working on the appointment of the three remaining board members. She said the new board was expected to uphold good corporate governance and ensure delivery of benefits to pensioners.
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/new-nssa-board-appointed/">Herald</a>

Govt Appoints New NSSA Board

In a statement yesterday, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Dr Sekai Nzenza confirmed she had dissolved the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) board after its tenure lapsed in June.
Nzenza said the dissolution was with immediate effect. Said Dr Nzenza:
<blockquote>The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare has dissolved the NSSA board of directors with immediate effect, a board that had served its statutory three-year tenure ending 30 June 2018. The tenure of the board had been extended to date, pending appointment of a new board.</blockquote>
She said a new board will be announced to ensure continuous implementation to the NSSA Act [Chapter 17:04].
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/nssa-board-dissolved/">Herald</a>

Minister Nzenza Dissolves NSSA Board

In a notice the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) said it is looking for a new chief executive officer.
This follows the dismissal of Elizabeth Chitiga 15 months before the expiry of her contract. Chitiga had taken over from James Matiza who was dismissed in 2015 through a restructuring exercise at Nssa. Acting in Matiza’s place was Hashmon Matemera who was fired in 2016. In a notice, Nssa said aspiring candidates should have a doctoral level education and proven track record in investment management. The required candidate is expected to have overall accountability, responsibility and authority for all of Nssa’s business affairs.
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NSSA Looks For New CEO

Senior management at the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) is reported to have awarded itself annual bonuses in excess of 300 percent for 2017. Some of the management staff are taking home $90 000 in annual bonuses which are not performance related. Pensioners are currently receiving $80 per month.  A letter by suspended NSSA General Manager, Elizabeth Chitiga responding to complaints about the bonuses reads:
<blockquote>I am writing to advise you that the Board, using its discretion has decided to reward all management and will be paying a bonus for 2017. This bonus award is a result of improved performance of the Authority during 2017 and the general uptick in service delivery. It is not a reflection of individual performance.
..The bonus award was submitted to and approved by the parent ministry. The board exercised its discretion in line with its mandate and as stipulated in the Employment Conditions of service.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/nssa-bosses-award-themselves-300-percent-bonuses/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">New Zimbabwe</a>

NSSA Management Awards Itself 300 Percent Annual Bonuses

The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) is reported to have bought 526 hectares from a non-existent farm in Chegutu. The authority bought the land from Phillip Chiyangwa in 2003 and up till now, there has been no transfer ownership. The land was bought for Z$310 million (now valued at $3,5 million). The transaction was later nullified by the government.
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2017/06/25/nssa-bought-land-34m-using-pensioners-funds-no-idea-land/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NSSA had written off the property after failing to locate it</a> but was forced to investigate the matter after Auditor-General Mildred Chiri exposed the discrepancy.
However, Chegutu town clerk Alex Mandigo, wrote to NSSA advising the authority that the land did not exist. Part of Mandingo’s letter reads:
<blockquote>It was further pointed out that the purported sale between Gabroc Enterprises and NSSA related to a non-existent piece of land referred to in your documents as ‘portions of Chegutu town land known as Hinton Ville’ or ‘near David Whitehead’. We have no record of such property in our jurisdiction and direct you to the Surveyor-General’s Office/Registrar of Deeds to ascertain the existence and location of such property.
With respect to this transaction, it was brought to the attention of NSSA that the transaction was thoroughly investigated by government and results of the investigation concluded that the transaction was illegal and therefore null and void at both law and policy</blockquote>
A report from the Local Government ministry also confirms that the land does not exist. Part of the report reads:
<blockquote>In all the papers cited, the piece of land is differently named as Hintonville Extension, Hintonville Extension South, or just 526ha without proper identification of same and, to the extent one could argue that if NSSA and/or Gabroc cannot legally identify the piece of land that they purport to have purchased, they may as well be treated as having purchased nothing as the transaction could be treated as merely bogus</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2017/10/chiyangwanssa-land-deal-new-twist/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a>

NSSA could have lost millions after buying non-existent farm from Chiyangwa

According to information gathered by The Sunday Mail, National Social Security Authority (NSSA) general manager Mrs Elizabeth Chitiga earns US$16 786 per month while other executives earn between US$6 000 and US$15 000 monthly. Pensioners get US$80 monthly payouts despite years of contributing to NSSA.
NSSA board chair Mr Robin Vela defended the high perks saying: 
<blockquote>The remuneration of executives is pitched to attract talent necessary to manage a US$1,3 billion fund. If the top executive is being remunerated at under US$20k per month on a TCTC (total cost to company) basis – that is, in my view, below market!</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Pensions and Insurance Rights Trust general manager Mr Martin Tarusenga condemned NSSA for paying huge salaries to top executive using the pension fund.
More: <a href="http://www.sundaymail.co.zw/nssa-executives-living-large/">Sunday Mail</a>

NSSA general manager earns US$16 786 per month while pensioners get US$80

Newly appointed Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister, Patrick Zhuwao reinstated Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president Peter Mutasa to the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) board.
Mutasa was dismissed from the NSSA board by former minister Prisca Mupfumira in May 2017 on allegations of leaking confidential board discussions and working against the institution’s interests. Zhuwao said that Mutasa’s appointment would be for the duration of the current board. In a letter addressed to Mutasa, Zhuwao said that he hoped the reinstatement will result in Mutasa withdrawing all lawsuits. Although some sources told The Financial Gazette that Zhuwao would push for another audit at NSSA, Mutasa said the matter had not come up in the meeting with the minister.
More: <a href="http://www.financialgazette.co.zw/patrick-zhuwao-targets-nssa/">Financial Gazette</a>

Zhuwao reverses Mupfumira's decision to dismiss ZCTU President from NSSA board

National Social Security Authority (NSSA) marketing and communications executive Mr Tendai Mutseyekwa said that 18 880 pensioners will not receive their monthly payouts beginning next month after having failed to register by last Saturday.
Said Mutseyekwa:
<blockquote>As at 4pm on Friday, 148 849 pensioners had registered under the biometric system. The exercise, which began in November 2016, ended last Saturday. It replaces life certificates that were being used. Biometric registration is only done once, unlike life certificates that had to be renewed annually. We started the biometric registration exercise in November last year and employed various strategies to encourage pensioners to register under the new system. Among these were countrywide road shows that were conducted in collaboration with traditional leaders during the first quarter of 2017. Our teams were deployed to some of the remotest parts of Zimbabwe, as well as strategic centres, such as growth points, to ensure that everyone was accorded a fair chance to register.</blockquote>
He said new contributors will be allowed to register.
More: <a href="http://www.chronicle.co.zw/18-800-pensioners-face-loss-of-income/">Chronicle</a>

18 880 pensioners will not receive NSSA payouts

27 968 pensioners will likely not receive monthly payouts from the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) beginning next month if they fail to register under the new biometric system. NSSA has captured about 156 700 pensioners countrywide.
Social Welfare Minister Prisca Mupfumira said:
<blockquote>The biometric registration of current pensioners is ending on September 30. Any new contributors will, however, be allowed to register, but when it comes to payment of pension, only those vetted will benefit. We are encouraging all those genuine pensioners, who are yet to register, to visit our respective centres and register. From October 1, NSSA will increase pension payouts based on people who will be registered. NSSA had outreach programmes and teams that were moving around registering deserving beneficiaries. We want to move away from paying deceased people or non-existing people. There are about 27 968 people who are not registered and come the 30th of September, they will not receive any benefits if they are not registered biometrically. They might not be aware, ghosts or could have been double counted.</blockquote>
More: <a href="http://www.herald.co.zw/no-nssa-payouts-for-27-900-pensioners/">Herald</a>

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